“We should work together and build pride in belonging to the public service while ensuring it becomes a real life of choice. Those who do not pull up their socks when serving people of the province must change their attitude.”

Mohono commended servants who strived beyond their scope of work to improve the lives of the people in the province. “There are civil servants who understand the principles of Batho Pele and make an effort to ensure that they adhere to these principles. There are also civil servants who don’t only work during working hours but provide services to the people even if they are not at work,” said Mohono.

This year’s event was held under the theme of : “15 Years of Strengthening the Ethos of Batho Pele and Recommitment towards an Efficient, Effective and Development Oriented Public Service and Empowered Citizenry.

Government officials from various departments assisted people who walked long distances to access government services including issuing of identity documents, birth certificates and social grants, among others.

Grita Matlapeng, 73, said she was impressed about the quality of service rendered by the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa).

“We do not have any problem with people working for Sassa. They assist us in a very good manner,” said Matlapeng.

Maleko Sehularo, 49, said: “We do appreciate all the service that our government provides for the community of Tosca. People working for home affairs and social development are always willing to assist us in receiving birth certificate and grants.”

Public servants must increase the standard of professionalism and create a public service that strives towards the vision of Batho Pele putting people first says former acting premier Desbo Mohono Speaking during Public Service Week in Tosca in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district last week Mohono called on civil servants to change their attitude in the work place